Fibrous Matrix Research Articles

Potential of multifunctional electrospun nanofibers in cancer management

Abstract A controlled and sustained release of drugs is much more desirable and beneficial when dealing with cancer, as such drugs also harm normal cells. Available anticancer drugs used in chemotherapy are associated with severe side effects due to high dosage requirements. Electrospun nanofibers have an extensive surface area, controllable pore size, and tunable drug release profiles, which make these nanofibers promising candidates in the medical field. Electrospun fibrous matrices are increasingly used in cancer research as patches for drug delivery in living organisms and as scaffolds for cancer modeling in the lab. Towards these applications, nanofibers synthesized by electrospinning have exhibited great clinical potential as a biomimetic tumor microenvironment model for drug screening, a controllable platform for localized, prolonged drug release for cancer therapy, and a human cancer diagnostic tool for capture and isolation of circulating tumor cells in the bloodstream and detection of cancer-associated biomarkers. This review briefly describes most of the materials used in electrospinning. Then, we discuss two ways that electrospinning is used to fight cancer: first, as patches with anticancer agents for therapeutic cargo delivery, and second, as three-dimensional fiber for filtering and detecting cancers.

Pro-vasculogenic Fibers by PDA-Mediated Surface Functionalization Using Cell-Free Fat Extract (CEFFE).

Formation of adequate vascular network within engineered three-dimensional (3D) tissue substitutes postimplantation remains a major challenge for the success of biomaterials-based tissue regeneration. To better mimic the in vivo angiogenic and vasculogenic processes, nowadays increasing attention is given to the strategy of functionalizing biomaterial scaffolds with multiple bioactive agents. Aimed at engineering electrospun biomimicking fibers with pro-vasculogenic capability, this study was proposed to functionalize electrospun fibers of polycaprolactone/gelatin (PCL/GT) by cell-free fat extract (CEFFE or FE), a newly emerging natural "cocktail" of cytokines and growth factors extracted from human adipose tissue. This was achieved by having the electrospun PCL/GT fiber surface coated with polydopamine (PDA) followed by PDA-mediated immobilization of FE to generate the pro-vasculogenic fibers of FE-PDA@PCL/GT. It was found that the PDA-coated fibrous mat of PCL/GT exhibited a high FE-loading efficiency (∼90%) and enabled the FE to be released in a highly sustained manner. The engineered FE-PDA@PCL/GT fibers possess improved cytocompatibility, as evidenced by the enhanced cellular proliferation, migration, and RNA and protein expressions (e.g., CD31, vWF, VE-cadherin) in the human umbilical vein endothelial cells (huvECs) used. Most importantly, the FE-PDA@PCL/GT fibrous scaffolds were found to enormously stimulate tube formation in vitro, microvascular development in the in ovo chick chorioallantoic membrane (CAM) assay, and vascularization of 3D construct in a rat subcutaneous embedding model. This study highlights the potential of currently engineered pro-vasculogenic fibers as a versatile platform for engineering vascularized biomaterial constructs for functional tissue regeneration.

Ultrastructural features of tumor-associated mast cells in parasympathetic paragangliomas (chemodectomas) of the neck.

The mechanisms of the pathogenesis of neck paraganglioma (PGL) and the possible role of mast cells (MCs) in its development and metastasis are still poorly understood. We analyzed MCs' morphologic characterization, activation, and the properties of their cytoplasmic/released granules in PGLs, using light and transmission electron microscopy. Paragangliomas showed a large tumor-associated MC population both in the connective tissue layers of the tumor and between the tumor cells. Notably, MCs were presented by a high expression of specific proteases, size variation, polymorphism, and variable ultrastructural phenotype of granules. A massive number of granules were released surrounding the degranulated MCs while the integrity of MC membrane was maintained. Granules were electron-dense with or without a membrane, ranging from 0.2 to 0.8 μm in diameter. MC plasmalemma was not found at the site of MC-collagen fibrils contact, whereas the secretome and fibrils were directly contacted. We observed direct and mediator-based interactions between MCs and paraganglioma cells. The latter preserved their membrane integrity when MC granules were not in proximity. The effects of the MC secretome on the paraganglioma microenvironment demonstrated its pathogenetic role in tumor progression and allow its application to new diagnostic criteria and the development of protocols for personalized therapy. RESEARCH HIGHLIGHTS: Ultrastructural analysis reveals novel regulatory effects of mast cells via diverse secretory pathways on the pathogenesis of parasympathetic paraganglioma, including fibrous extracellular matrix remodeling and mediator-based interactions between MCs and cells of the tumor microenvironment.

Development of antifungal fibrous ocular insert using freeze-drying technique

Candida species is one of the pathogenic fungi of the eye responsible for keratitis that frequently causes vision impairment and blindness. Effective treatment requires long-term use of antifungal drugs, which is opposed by the defensive mechanisms of the eye and inadequate corneal penetration. The objective of this study was to develop a carrier for prolonged ocular application of fluconazole (FLZ) to treat keratitis. FLZ was encapsulated into chitosan fibrous matrices (F1–F4) using different chitosan concentrations (0.02, 0.1, 0.5, and 1%w/v, respectively) by freeze-drying as a single-step technique. Studying the morphology and surface properties of the inserts revealed a porous matrix with fibrous features with a large surface area. Thermal stability and chemical compatibility were confirmed by DSC/TGA/DTA and FT-IR, respectively. Loading capacity (LC) and entrapment efficiency (EE) were determined. According to the in vitro release study, F4 (0.11 mg mg−1 LC and 87.53% EE) was selected as the optimum insert because it had the most sustained release, with 15.85% burst release followed by 75.62% release within 12 h. Ex vivo corneal permeation study revealed a 1.2-fold increase in FLZ permeation from F4 compared to FLZ aqueous solution. Also, in the in vivo pharmacokinetic study in rabbits, F4 increased the AUC0-8 of FLZ by 9.3-fold and its concentration in aqueous humor was maintained above the MIC through the experimentation time. Studies on cytotoxicity (MTT assay) provide evidence for the safety and biocompatibility of F4. Therefore, the freeze-dried FLZ-loaded chitosan fibrous insert could be a promising candidate for treating ocular keratitis.Graphical

Self-Oxidated Hydrophilic Chitosan Fibrous Mats for Fatal Hemorrhage Control.

Enriching erythrocytes and platelets in seconds and providing a fast seal in bleeding sites is vital to fatal hemorrhage control. Herein, hydrophilic chitosan fibrous mats (CECS-D mats) are fabricated by introducing hydrophilic carboxyethyl groups and subsequent catechol groups onto chitosan fibers. Due to strong hydrophilicity, CECS-D mats exhibit rapid liquid-absorption capacity, especially instantaneous absorptivity to the rabbit blood, which can achieve erythrocyte and platelet aggregations quickly by concentrating blood, thus promoting the formation of blood clots. Furthermore, the mats are self-oxidated to form quinone-amine adducts or quinone multimers by adjusting pH conditions, which not only provides tissue adhesion but also induces erythrocyte aggregation and platelet adhesion, further enhancing the seal and triggering quick closure to achieve fast hemostasis. Therefore, the mats reveal superior hemostatic performance in rabbit liver and spleen models over CECS mats and gauze. Especially in the fatal femoral artery injury model of rabbits, the mats reduce the blood loss by ∼75% and shortened the bleeding time by ∼50% compared with CECS mats, which have been reported to have the same hemostatic effect as commercialized Celox products in a swine femoral artery injury model. Besides, the mats are cytocompatible and degradable as well as antibacterial. This chitosan mat is a promising hemostatic material for fatal hemorrhage control.

Morphofunctional and histological patterns of blood vessels in the superficial cervicofacial musculoaponeurotic system in midlateral face regions

ObjectiveThe superficial cervicofacial musculoaponeurotic system (SMAS) is a complex network formed by mimic muscles and conjunctive tissue of the superficial fascia of the face.This study aimed to introduce new anatomofunctional data on the importance of the trans-SMAS distribution pattern of the skin microperfusion of the face and to underline the role of SMAS in maintaining the homeostasis of the vascular network that crosses it. Considering the fibrous and muscular matrix of the SMAS, using COLIII and MyoH2 antibodies, together with endothelial immunohistochemistry(IHC)intercellular adhesion molecule 2 marker, we determined the correlation of these structures and their interaction. MethodsThis study included 33donors of SMAS tissues, which have been stained withregular hematoxylin and eosin (HE), and three different IHC markers have been used (collagen III, muscular tissue, and blood vessels). The samples were collected from parotid, masseteric, jugal, and zygomatic regions. Magnetic resonance angiography was used to identify the main vascular sources of the midlateral regions of the face of another 47 patients. ResultsSignificant differences in topographic arrangement, density, and relations of the microsopic vasculature were observed between each of the four regions. Major differences were identified between the role of SMAS in each of these regions, from the parotid capsule to masseteric fascia, transition mobile part, and attaching manners in the zygomatic subunit. ConclusionsBlood vessel topography must be related with the surrounding conjunctive and muscular tissue, especially regarding facial SMAS. Intrinsic relations between these three components of the SMAS and nervous fibers can provide us important hints on the functionality of the whole system.

Highly strain-sensitive and stretchable multilayer conductive composite based on aligned thermoplastic polyurethane fibrous mat for human motion monitoring

Conductive composite materials with single-component active fillers often possess high filler content, poor mechanical performance, and unimproved sensing behaviors. To overcome these challenges, a flexible strain sensor with a sandwich structure was achieved by coupling one-dimensional conductive filler carbon nanotubes (CNTs) with two-dimensional MXene nanosheets on an aligned thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU) electrospinning fibrous film with wave structure through vacuum suction filtration and encapsulation with Ecoflex. The synergy of MXene and CNTs can be employed to develop a good conductive path in the matrix, which can realize versatile sensing performances. Meanwhile, the MXene-CNTs/TPU/Ecoflex composites (MCTEC) when stretched in vertical fiber direction exhibit low hysteresis owing to the combination of the aligned TPU fiber network with wave structure and the low viscoelasticity of Ecoflex. The strain sensor based on MCTEC also possesses a low detection limit (0.1% strain), wide sensing range (0-251% strain), fast response time (50 ms), and fine sensing recoverability. Additionally, this strain sensor can monitor human limb movement and vocalization, which facilitates the development of strain sensors in the field of intelligent healthcare.

Amino Acid-Based Molecular and Membranous Chiral Tools for Enantiomeric Recognition.

Given the need, both academic and industrial, for new approaches and technologies for chiral discrimination of enantiomers, the present work demonstrates the development through rational design and integration of two new chiral platforms (molecular and membranous) for enantioselective recognition through visual as well as microscopic observation. The molecular platform (TPT) is based on the tryptophan derivative developed through the condensation of two tryptophan units with terepthaloyl chloride. While TPT based on l-tryptophan recognizes R-mandelic acid over the S-isomer, the host with reverse chirality (TPDT) recognizes S-mandelic acid over R-isomer. The role of chemical functionality in this sensitive recognition process was established experimentally by developing an analogue of TPT and by judiciously using different chiral analytes. Importantly, a detailed theoretical study at the molecular level revealed the U-shaped conformation of TPT, creating a cavity for accommodating a chiral guest with selective functional interaction resulting in the discrimination of enantiomers. Finally, a chiral polymeric mat of poly(methyl methacrylate) (PMMA)/polyacrylonitrile (PAN) (2:3) impregnated with TPT was developed via electrospinning. The resulting fibrous mat was successfully utilized for chiral recognition through microscopic and architectural observation. Hence, the present work reports simple chiral tools for enantiomeric recognition.

Unexpected softening of a fibrous matrix by contracting inclusions

Cells respond to the stiffness of their surrounding environment, but quantifying the stiffness of a fibrous matrix at the scale of a cell is complicated, due to the effects of nonlinearity and complex force transmission pathways resulting from randomness in fiber density and connections. While it is known that forces produced by individual contractile cells can stiffen the matrix, it remains unclear how simultaneous contraction of multiple cells in a fibrous matrix alters the stiffness at the scale of a cell. Here, we used computational modeling and experiments to quantify the stiffness of a random fibrous matrix embedded with multiple contracting inclusions, which mimicked the contractile forces of a cell. The results showed that when the matrix was free to contract as a result of the forces produced by the inclusions, the matrix softened rather than stiffened, which was surprising given that the contracting inclusions applied tensile forces to the matrix. Using the computational model, we identified that the underlying cause of the softening was that the majority of the fibers were under a local state of axial compression, causing buckling. We verified that this buckling-induced matrix softening was sufficient for cells to sense and respond by altering their morphology and force generation. Our findings reveal that the localized forces induced by cells do not always stiffen the matrix; rather, softening can occur in instances wherein the matrix can contract in response to the cell-generated forces. This study opens up new possibilities to investigate whether cell-induced softening contributes to maintenance of homeostatic conditions or progression of disease. Statement of significanceMechanical interactions between cells and the surrounding matrix strongly influence cellular functions. Cell-induced forces can alter matrix properties, and much prior literature in this area focused on the influence of individual contracting cells. Cells in tissues are rarely solitary; rather, they are interspersed with neighboring cells throughout the matrix. As a result, the mechanics are complicated, leaving it unclear how the multiple contracting cells affect matrix stiffness. Here, we show that multiple contracting inclusions within a fibrous matrix can cause softening that in turn affects cell sensing and response. Our findings provide new directions to determine impacts of cell-induced softening on maintenance of tissue or progression of disease.

Polysaccharide hybrid scaffold encapsulated endogenous factors for microfracture enhancement by sustainable release and cell recruitment

Autologous matrix-induced chondrogenesis improves microfracture (MF), but the lack of functional cells and factors inhibit a curative effect. Here, inspired by the healing process of wounds, we prepared a polysaccharide hybrid scaffold (HDCP) to immobilize endogenous growth factors (eGFs), which were derived from platelet-rich plasma (PRP). Compared with the absence of PRP, the hybrid cross-linking network endowed this scaffold with a denser pore structure, enhanced mechanical properties, and slower protein mass transfer rate, thus ensuring the long-term sustainable release of eGFs. In vitro studies confirmed that HDCP promoted bone marrow mesenchymal stem cell recruitment, proliferation, and chondrogenic differentiation. In vivo implantation indicated that HDCP regenerated a smooth articular cartilage surface with a regular fibrous matrix arrangement structure, and the mechanical strength of the regenerated cartilage considerably improved. The obvious MF enhancement implied that PRP and polysaccharide scaffold hybridization could be used as an implantable matrix for cartilage repair.

Emerging anisotropy and tethering with memory effects in fibrous materials

Fibrous materials may undergo an internal reorganization, which turns out in the emergence of preferential directions. This is a peculiar behavior of many biological tissues, which drive reorientation by external stimuli at chemo-mechanical levels. In particular, it is detected that contractile cells can reorganize fibrous extracellular matrices and form dense tracts of aligned fibers (tethers), that guide the development of tubular tissue structures and may provide paths for the invasion of cancer cells. Tether formation is caused by buckling instability of network fibers under cell-induced compression. We present a simple mechanical model, within a variational framework, that captures the essential aspects of these phenomena. The model qualitatively describes: (i) the emergence, induced by local compressive strain, of anisotropy, where fibrous materials exhibit directional preferences; (ii) the occurrence of micro-buckling, which leaves a lasting plastic deformation in the material; and (iii) the formation of localized field patterns, which contribute to the overall behavior of the material. By considering these fundamental aspects, our model provides insights into the mechanical response of fibrous materials and sheds light on the underlying mechanisms driving their behavior.

Hot Topics and Emerging Trends in Mechanobiology Research

Mechanobiology focuses on a series of important physiopathological processes, such as how cells perceive different mechanomechanical stimuli, the process of intracellular mechanotransduction, and how mechanical signals determine the behavior and fate of cells. From the initial stage of embryogenesis, to developmental biology and regenerative medicine, or even through the whole life process, mechanical signaling cascades and cellular mechanical responses in mechanobiology are of great significance in biomedical research. In recent years, research in the field of mechanobiology has undergone remarkable development. Several scientific consortia around the world have been analyzing mechanobiological processes from different perspectives, aiming to gain insights into the regulatory mechanisms by which mechanical factors affect cell fate determination. In this article, we summarized and reviewed the topics that have attracted more research interests in recent years in the field of mechanobiology, for example, arterial blood vessels, stem cell, and ion channel. We also discussed the potential trends that may emerge, such as nuclear deformation, fibrous extracellular matrix, tumor mechanobiology, cellular mechanotransduction, and piezo ion channels. In addition, we put forward new ideas concerning the limitations of mechanism research and the importance of big data analysis and mining in this field, thereby providing objective support and a systematic framework for grasping the hot research topics and exploring new research directions in the field of mechanobiology.

Effect of Collector Rotational Speed on the Morphology and Structure of Solution Blow Spun Polylactic Acid (PLA).

Apart from structure and composition, morphology plays a significant role in influencing the performance of materials in terms of both bulk and surface behavior. In this work, polylactic acid (PLA) constituted by submicrometric fibers is prepared. Using a modified electrospinning (ES) device to carry out solution blow spinning (SBS), the fibrillar morphology is modified, with the aim to induce variations in the properties of the material. The modification of the ES device consists of the incorporation of a source of pressurized gas (air) and a 3D-printed nozzle of our own design. For this work, the morphology of the PLA submicrometric fibers is modified by varying the rotational speed of the collector in order to understand its influence on different properties and, consequently, on the performance of the material. The rotational speed of a cylindrical collector (250, 500, 1000 and 2000 rpm) is considered as variable for changing the morphology. Morphological study of the materials was performed using scanning electron microscopy and image analysis carried out with ImageJ 1.54f software. Besides a morphology study, structural characterization by Fourier transformed infrared spectroscopy using attenuated total reflectance of prepared materials is carried out. Finally, the morphology and structure of produced PLA fibrous mats were correlated with the analysis of mechanical properties, wettability behavior and adhesion of DH5-α E. coli bacteria. It is of interest to highlight how small morphological and chemical structure variations can lead to important changes in materials' performance. These changes include, for example, those above 30% in some mechanical parameters and clear variations in bacterial adhesion capacity.

Fabrication of flexible glucose sensor based on heterostructure ZnO nanosheets decorated PU/Chitosan-PANI hybrid nanofiber

Designing and fabrication of immensely accurate, affordable, sensitive, and portable glucose sensors is rapidly increasing in clinical applications. However, commercialization of wearable sensors has been impeded by inadequate conductivity, insufficient durability, poor flexibility, and enzyme immobilization. Herein, a scalable approach for fabricating a nanofiber-based highly electroactive, flexible, and disposable (PUC-PANI-ZnO@GOx) sensor that can assess glucose stimuli with sufficient liquid permeability by anchoring ZnO nanosheets over polyaniline (PANI) coated polyurethane-chitosan (PU-Chitosan; PUC) fibrous mat followed by glucose oxidase (GOx) immobilization is described. Regarding the electrocatalytic performance, PUC-PANI-ZnO@GOx sensor showed a high sensitivity (∼998.72 µA mM−1 cm−2) and a low detection limit (∼7.31 µM) for a broad linear range of 0.01 – 9.48 mM with acceptable stability and reproducibility. The fabricated sensor was highly selective towards glucose in the presence of exogenous and endogenous interfering species. To the best of our knowledge, this novel polymer-based nanocomposite adorned on nanofiber substrate was utilized for the first time for the fabrication of a flexible glucose sensor. It can be used for producing a large-scale, cost-effective, and high-performing sensor. Hence, this sustainable and eco-friendly approach can lead to new techniques for designing next-generation wearable and implantable glucose sensors.

Cytocompatible and osteoconductive silicon oxycarbide glass scaffolds 3D printed by DLP: a potential material for bone tissue regeneration.

Bone lesions affect individuals of different age groups, compromising their daily activities and potentially leading to prolonged morbidity. Over the years, new compositions and manufacturing technologies were developed to offer customized solutions to replace injured tissue and stimulate tissue regeneration. This work used digital light processing (DPL) technology for three-dimensional (3D) printing of porous structures using pre-ceramic polymer, followed by pyrolysis to obtain SiOC vitreous scaffolds. The SiOC scaffolds produced had an amorphous structure (compatible with glass) with an average porosity of 72.69% ± 0.99, an average hardness of 935.1 ± 71.0HV, and an average maximum flexural stress of 7.8 ± 1.0MPa, similar to cancellous bone tissue. The scaffolds were not cytotoxic and allowed adult stem cell adhesion, growth, and expansion. After treatment with osteoinductive medium, adult stem cells in the SiOC scaffolds differentiated to osteoblasts, assuming a tissue-like structure, with organization in multiple layers and production of a dense fibrous matrix rich in hydroxyapatite. The in vitro analyses supported the hypothesis that the SiOC scaffolds produced in this work were suitable for use as a bone substitute for treating critically sized lesions, with the potential to stimulate the gradual process of regeneration of the native tissue. The data obtained stimulate the continuity of studies with the SiOC scaffolds developed in this work, paving the way for evaluating safety and biological activity in vivo.

Sulfur-assisted ammonia treatment of a fibrous carbon matrix to fabricate a high-content pyrrole-type Fe–N–C catalyst for superior oxygen reduction

High-content pyrrole-type iron–nitrogen–carbon sites on a fibrous carbon matrix were successfully prepared through ammonia treatment with pre-doping of sulfur, which shows excellent performance toward the oxygen reduction reaction.

Juvenile Primary Ossifying Fibroma of Maxillary Sinus: A Case Report and Review of the Literature

Fibro-osseous lesions (FOLs) are a group of benign bone disorders, defined by the replacement of functional bone by fibrous connective tissue matrices. Our case report delves into the presentation of a specific FOL, namely the juvenile ossifying fibroma (JOF). This disease’s rare occurrence in a clinical setup makes documentation of such presentations vital to otorhinolaryngologists across the globe. Our article highlights the presentation of such a case of JOF in a 15-year-old male child from Pakistan. We discuss differentials, our process towards reaching a diagnosis via biopsy, and the disease’s resolution via surgical excision. Due to JOF mimicking a plethora of similar otorhinolaryngology-adjacent diseases, our article wishes to provide insight with regards to approaching patients with relevant presenting complaints, eliminating differentials, and deciding on a particular treatment regimen.

In vitro assessment of Momordica charantia/Hypericum perforatum oils loaded PCL/Collagen fibers: Novel scaffold for tissue engineering.

The research on tissue engineering applications has been progressing to manufacture ideal tissue scaffold biomaterials. In this study, a double-layered electrospun biofiber scaffold biomaterial including Polycaprolactone (PCL)/Collagen (COL) fibrous inner layer and PCL/ Momordica charantia (MC) and Hypericum perforatum (HP) oils fibrous outer layer was developed to manufacture a functional, novel tissue scaffold with the advantageous mechanical and biological properties. The main approach was to combine the natural perspective using medicinal oils with an engineering point of view to fabricate a potential functional scaffold for tissue engineering. Medicinal plants MC and HP are rich in functional oils and incorporation of them in a tissue scaffold will unveil their potential to augment both new tissue formation and wound healing. In this study, a novel double-layered scaffold prototype was fabricated using electrospinning technique with two PCL fiber layers, first is composed of collagen, and second is composed of oils extracted from medicinal plants. Initially, the composition of plant oils was analyzed. Thereafter the biofiber scaffold layers were fabricated and were evaluated in terms of morphology, physicochemistry, thermal and mechanical features, wettability, in vitro bio-degradability. Double-layered scaffold prototype was further analyzed in terms of in vitro biocompatibility and antibacterial effect. The medicinal oils blend provided antioxidant and antibacterial properties to the novel PCL/Oils layer. The results signify that inner PCL/COL layer exhibited advanced biodegradability of 8.5% compared to PCL and enhanced wettability with 11.7° contact angle. Strength of scaffold prototype was 5.98 N/mm2 thanks to the elastic PCL fibrous matrix. The double-layered functional biofiber scaffold enabled 92% viability after 72 h contact with fibroblast cells and furthermore provided feasible attachment sites for the cells. The functional scaffold prototype's noteworthy mechanical, chemical, and biological features enable it to be suggested as a different novel biomaterial with the potential to be utilized in tissue engineering applications.

Production of gelatin fibrous mats using different nanofiber production methods for medical applications and comparison of their properties.

In the literature, there are studies on medical applications using different nanofiber production methods with natural polymers. However, each system has different fiber-forming capabilities. For this reason, in this study, we investigated the production of nanofibers from a biodegradable natural polymer, gelatin, using four separate nanofiber production methods, namely electrospinning (ES), electroblowing (EB), solution blowing (SB), and centrifugal spinning (CS). Our aim was to determine the most suitable fibrous web structure for medical applications and contribute to science in this respect. It was observed that the thinnest fibers (386 nm) and the heaviest mats (15.975 g m-2) were produced by the SB method as a result of using 10 wt.% gelatin solution with a total of 10 mL. With the ES and EB methods, tighter fabric structures were obtained than with the others due to the presence of electric fields. In the CS method, more and bead-free fibers were produced due to the increase in viscosity with a 12.5 wt.% gelatin solution. Moreover, with the concentration of 12.5 wt.%, the fiber diameters of SB and CS samples increased about 2-fold.

Electrospinning fibrous membrane matrix ionic capacitive sensor for pressure value and distribution detection

Considering the practical applications of capacitive sensors, electrical sensing fibrous membranes should own high mechanical strength, elasticity, sensitivity, thermal diffusivity and biocompatibility, listing the basic design and preparation demands via electrostatic spinning. Polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) fibrous membrane matrix pressure ionic capacitive sensors were prepared via electrostatic spinning. The addition and dissolution of polyvinylpyrrolidone (PVP) particles realized porous structures of PVDF fibrous membrane, providing silver particles (Ag) dependence matrix for conductive Ag-porous PVDF fibrous membrane of electrode layer. The PVDF matrix capacitive sensor was composed of sandwiching dielectric layer of PVDF fibrous membrane with ionic liquid (IL-PVDF) between two electrode layers. The construction of electrical double layers at the interfaces between electrode layer and dielectric layer significantly enhanced capacitance sensing properties. After encapsulating by pure PVDF fibrous membranes, PVDF fibrous membrane matrix ionic capacitive sensor exhibited excellent stability, sensitivity and durability in pressure loading range of 0–8 kPa for 5000 cyclic experiments，which was suitable for real-time detection of multiple physiological bending signals. Based on pressure sensing array construction, the values and distribution of static and dynamic loads were reflected accurately and intuitively, providing feasible methods for practical applications of functional fiber matrix sensors in fields of healthcare and human-machine interaction.